Dark underarms can be a frustrating cosmetic concern, especially when you want to wear sleeveless tops. However, dark underarms might also indicate underlying health issues. Let’s explore what causes dark underarms and how you can effectively treat them, drawing insights from top dermatologists.
What Causes Dark Underarms?
Dark underarms are often caused by a condition known as acanthosis nigricans (AN), which leads to thickened, darkened skin in body folds. Commonly affected areas include the armpits, neck, groin, elbows, and knees. Here are some key factors contributing to this condition:
Key Factors Contributing to Dark Underarms:
1. Genetics: Dark underarms can run in families due to inherited genes.
2. Skin Irritation: Repeated shaving, plucking, and the use of harsh products can irritate the skin, causing it to produce more melanocytes (pigment cells) and darken over time.
3. Obesity: Carrying extra weight can lead to insulin resistance, increasing insulin levels in the blood and triggering AN. Over half of adults who are significantly overweight experience darkening in their underarms and other skin folds.
4. Hormonal Disorders: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, and Cushing’s syndrome can disrupt insulin levels and contribute to dark underarms.
5. Medications: Certain drugs, including insulin, corticosteroids, and birth control pills, can increase insulin levels and lead to skin darkening.
6. Cancer: In rare cases, AN can signal an underlying cancer, such as in the stomach, liver, or colon. This form is known as malignant acanthosis nigricans and often presents with dark patches around the mouth.
7. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Discoloration that shows up on the skin after an inflammatory process has healed. Causes include plucking, waxing, eczema flares, fungal infections, and contact dermatitis.
8. Harsh Ingredients in Products: Ingredients found in natural deodorants like tea tree oil, lavender, and other botanical extracts can be irritating.
How to Treat Dark Underarms
Addressing the underlying cause of dark underarms is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some approaches that can help lighten the skin:
Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies
1. Weight Loss: Losing weight can reduce insulin resistance and often improves AN. Combine a healthy diet with regular exercise for the best results.
2. Gentle Hair Removal: Switch to gentle hair removal methods. Use shaving cream or soap to lubricate the skin before shaving and apply an unscented moisturizing cream afterward.
3. Moisturizing: Keep the underarm area moisturized to prevent irritation and further darkening. Use natural, unscented lotions to soothe the skin.
4. Avoid Intense Exfoliation: Intense scrubbing can break down the skin barrier and cause inflammation. Opt for gentle exfoliation methods.
Medical Treatments
1. Topical Creams: Dermatologists often prescribe retinoid creams or gels like tretinoin, which can help thin and lighten the skin. Other options include hydroquinone and vitamin D-based creams.
2. Chemical Peels: Peels containing trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can exfoliate the skin, removing the thicker, darker layers.
3. Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can reduce skin thickness and lighten the pigmentation. They are also effective in reducing hair growth, which can minimize the need for shaving.
4. Oral Medications: In severe cases, dermatologists might prescribe oral retinoids. These medications can have significant side effects and should be used under medical supervision.
In-Office Treatments
1. Light Chemical Peels: These can turn over the skin cells and reduce pigmentation.
2. Laser Hair Reduction: This can minimize irritation from shaving and reduce hair growth, contributing to lighter underarms.
3. Bleaching Creams: Prescribed by dermatologists, these should be used cautiously to avoid side effects like skin thinning and steroid acne.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice sudden darkening of your underarms or other areas of your skin, consult a dermatologist or primary care doctor. This could be a sign of a more serious condition like diabetes or cancer.
While dark underarms can be a cosmetic concern, understanding the underlying causes is essential for effective treatment. From lifestyle changes and natural remedies to medical treatments, there are various ways to lighten dark underarms. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach for your specific situation.
